Winter can be brutal on your skin. Dry air, icy winds, and indoor heating strip away moisture, leaving your face feeling tight, flaky, and irritated. But with the right strategy, you can keep your skin soft, hydrated, and glowing, even in the harshest conditions. Here’s how to winter-proof your skin like a pro.
Why Winter Is a Challenge for Your Skin
The cold season doesn’t just change your wardrobe; it demands a whole new approach to skincare. Low humidity levels in the air draw moisture out of your skin. Indoor heating only makes matters worse by creating a dry environment that dehydrates your complexion. Combine that with harsh winds that damage your skin’s barrier, and it’s no surprise that winter often leads to dull, irritated skin.
Skip the Long, Hot Showers
Yes, they’re tempting, but hot water strips your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Keep showers short and stick to warm—not hot—water.
Moisturise Smarter
This is the time to upgrade your moisturiser. Switch from lightweight lotions to richer creams packed with hydrating heroes like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and natural butters. These ingredients help repair your skin’s barrier and lock in moisture, keeping your skin protected from the elements.
If you’re battling seriously dry patches, add a facial oil to your routine. It acts as an extra shield against moisture loss, sealing everything in. For example, the Leave-Me-On Winter Mask is infused with powerhouse oils such as:
- Jojoba Oil: Mimics your skin’s natural oils to provide deep hydration.
- Sunflower Oil: Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E to repair and protect.
- Sweet Almond Oil: Nourishes and soothes dry, irritated skin.
- Macadamia Oil: A lightweight oil that replenishes moisture and promotes healing.
- Argan Oil: Locks in hydration and delivers essential fatty acids for smoother skin.
These oils work together to strengthen your skin’s barrier and provide long-lasting hydration, making them perfect for combating winter dryness.
Invest in a Humidifier
If your home feels like the Sahara, it’s time to invest in a humidifier. It pumps moisture back into the air, which not only helps your skin but also soothes dry noses, throats, and eyes. Place it in the rooms where you spend the most time, like your bedroom or office, to keep your skin hydrated around the clock.
Hydrate From the Inside
Hydration isn’t just about what you put on your skin—it’s also about what you put in your body. Drink plenty of water and include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts. These healthy fats help your skin retain moisture and reduce inflammation.
Choose a Gentle Cleanser
Your summer foaming cleanser isn’t going to cut it during winter. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin’s natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to the cold. Opt for a creamy, hydrating cleanser that cleans your face without compromising your skin barrier.
The Glow Up Cleanser is your winter skincare must-have. Its gentle formula effectively removes impurities while keeping your skin hydrated and balanced. It’s packed with:
- Cucumber Extract: To soothe and refresh.
- Moringa Seed Oil: To purify and protect against environmental stressors.
- Vitamin C: For a radiant, healthy glow.
Unlike harsh cleansers, the Glow Up Cleanser works with your skin, not against it, leaving your face clean, soft, and ready to soak up moisture from your next skincare step. It’s the perfect starting point for your winter routine.
Fix Common Winter Skin Problems
- Dry, Flaky Skin: Layer a hydrating serum under your moisturiser for extra hydration.
- Redness and Sensitivity: Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera or oatmeal to soothe irritation.
- Cracked Heels and Hands: Use a thick cream or balm overnight and cover with gloves or socks to lock in moisture.
Simple DIY Winter Skin Remedies
- Honey Mask for Dry Skin: Apply raw honey to your face for 15 minutes to draw in moisture and soothe irritation.
- Oatmeal Bath: Add a cup of oatmeal to a warm bath to calm itchy, dry skin.
- Avocado and Olive Oil Mask: Mash half an avocado with a tablespoon of olive oil and apply it to your face for intense hydration.
The Bottom Line
Winter doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your skin. With the right products, a little extra care, and a few clever tricks, you can keep your skin happy and healthy all season long. Hydrate, moisturise, and don’t forget to treat yourself to some self-care—it’s the best antidote to winter blues.